News
Stuart De San Nicolas appointed Cluster General Manager for 3 Minor Hotels properties in Maldives
Stuart De San Nicolas has been appointed as the new Cluster General Manager for Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Avani+ Fares Resort and NH Collection Maldives Havodda, effective from 23rd December 2023.
With over 30 years of hands-on industry experience, gained from an impressive career that has taken him to locations as diverse as Europe, South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, Stuart is well-equipped to lead this new management role.
A native of Spain, Stuart joins Minor Hotels from Conrad Bora Bora Nui, where he helped to elevate the resort’s luxury offerings through his position as General Manager. Having begun his hospitality journey in 1993 at the Hyatt Regency group in France, Stuart went on to take various roles in the front office and food and beverage departments of hotels around the world as he developed his hospitality expertise.
For more than 20 years, Stuart has held the position of General Manager in such prestigious hotels as Altapura in France, Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Hotel & Spa in Mauritius, Marriott Islamabad, Pik Palace and Park Chalet, both part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection in Azerbaijan, Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort in Peru, The St. Regis Mauritius, and Le Meridien Bora Bora.
With his well-seasoned leadership style, Stuart has also enjoyed considerable success at leading and motivating large teams with a steadfast commitment to delivering five-star experiences for guests. Demanding nothing short of excellence in the daily operations of the resorts under his charge, Stuart has a strong track record of consistently surpassing guest expectations.
“We are delighted to welcome Stuart to the Minor family and to our leadership team in the Maldives. With his extensive experience and passion for excellence in service, we are confident that he will continue to enhance Minor Hotels growing presence within in the region,” said Dillip Rajakarier, Chief Executive Officer of Minor Hotels and Group Chief Executive Officer of Minor International.
“I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to lead three of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives. Anantara Kihavah is truly the definition of paradise and I look forward to guiding this award-winning resort into the next chapter together with our incredible team, Mr. De San Nicolas commented. “With the recent introduction of the Avani+ and NH Collection brands to the Maldives, Minor Hotels has such a strong footprint in the market bringing the finest world-class standards to all sectors of this popular tourist destination.”
With 80 luxurious villas and residences on an island within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah is one of Minor Hotels’ flagship properties. Guests at the resort can indulge in a diverse culinary journey at six restaurants and bars, including the legendary SEA Underwater Restaurant. The resort also boasts an array of leisure facilities, including an outdoor cinema, a kids club, a water sports centre, and a dive centre. For ultimate relaxation, guests can rejuvenate at the Anantara Spa, which offers Asian therapies, aesthetic treatments, immunity-boosting Medi-spa, and ancient ayurvedic wellness treatments.
Another tropical haven situated on the western edge of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Avani+ Fares Resort is an upscale, family-friendly resort showcasing 176 stylish villas and residences, along with pavilions, seven bars and restaurants, world-class diving facilities, a water sports centre, an AvaniFit gym, and a contemporary AvaniSpa. The AvaniKids and Teens Club buzzes with daily programming and exciting outdoor adventures, creating a vibrant hub for young guests.
Nestled on a private island in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, NH Collection Maldives Havodda boasts a mix of 120 beach and overwater villas, each offering a home-away-from-home experience with modern amenities and breathtaking views. The resort features three restaurants and two bars, providing guests with sensational culinary experiences. Beyond dining, NH Collection Maldives Havodda offers extensive leisure facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, all-purpose court, kids’ club, water sports and dive centre, as well as the opportunity to obtain a scuba diving license.
News
Escape to naturally better festive at JA Manafaru
Set in the pristine northernmost atoll of the Maldives, JA Manafaru is set to unveil a captivating array of festive activities, running from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2025. This enchanting experience is complemented by an authentic Maldivian escape designed to enchant every guest.
Begin your Christmas Eve with the grand reveal of a magnificent gingerbread house, followed by a delightful Christmas evening cocktail reception. The evening will culminate in a spectacular Christmas Gala Dinner at Kakuni, crafted to create joyful memories with loved ones.
On Christmas Day, awaken to a sumptuous Christmas Brunch, perfect for savouring festive culinary delights. The celebrations continue with a lively Christmas Cookie Decorating session at CoolZone and the eagerly awaited arrival of Santa Claus, who will spread cheer and joy to guests of all ages. Enjoy the festive spirit further with a selection of Christmas carols.
The festive excitement extends beyond Christmas with a variety of engaging events. Highlights include a spirited Pool Party, a fun-filled Karaoke Night, and an exclusive Organic Wine & Food Pairing Dinner at The Cellar. Guests can also ring in the New Year at a vibrant New Year’s Eve Cocktail Party, hosted by the acclaimed DJ Tom Green from the United Kingdom.
This year’s festive programme features an exceptional line-up of talent. Experience the enchanting performances of Ina, a multi-skilled artist from Barcelona, marvel at the magical artistry of Yang Wei, and be thrilled by the fire performances of Iván Romero.
JA Manafaru’s offerings extend beyond exceptional dining to encompass a diverse range of family-friendly activities, fitness programmes, and engaging events, including a unique Foraging Dinner. Guests can reconnect through various wellness workshops, such as the Sugar-Free Wellness Cooking Class and Kombucha Workshop at the Veli Bar. Personalised training sessions and sports coaching are also available, featuring dedicated football and tennis camps for all ages. The festive celebrations continue into the first week of January, highlighting the Ded Moroz Arrival Cocktail and an Orthodox Christmas Gala Dinner.
The resort’s opulent accommodations blend seamlessly with the stunning natural landscape. Guests can choose from a variety of spacious villas, each featuring a private pool for the ultimate in relaxation. The resort boasts seven exceptional venues, offering diverse à la carte menus that cater to various dietary preferences, experience authentic Maldivian cuisine, as well as themed nights that celebrate vibrant global flavours. An extensive collection of over 150 wines, cocktails, and beverages enhances the dining experience, further enriched by the “Dine Around” programme, which allows guests the freedom to enjoy any restaurant on any evening, all while embracing sustainable dining through homegrown and homemade initiatives.
With over 55 complimentary activities, from exhilarating water sports to educational initiatives at the Cool Zone kids’ club, there is something for everyone. Arrive in style via a scenic 70-minute seaplane journey or a swift domestic flight followed by a speedboat ride.
Create unforgettable festive memories amid stunning natural beauty at JA Manafaru. From indulging in exquisite cuisine and participating in revitalising wellness activities to embracing the joyful spirit of the season through thoughtfully curated events, JA Manafaru offers a Truly Naturally Better Festive Season.
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Ex-world champion Angelique Kerber to visit Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas for exclusive tennis clinic
From 27 November to 8 December 2024, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas will welcome former world No.1 tennis champion Angelique Kerber for an exclusive tennis clinic. Known for her Grand Slam victories and exceptional career, Angelique will enjoy the serene beauty of the Maldives and share her passion for tennis with our guests through a series of exclusive lessons, both group and private.
Guests at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas will have the opportunity to engage with Angelique on the resort’s tennis courts, designed for enthusiasts of all levels. These intimate sessions will allow guests to learn directly from one of the most accomplished athletes, enhancing their tennis skills while enjoying our resort’s tropical beauty.
Angelique Kerber, a three-time Grand Slam champion and Olympic silver medallist, is recognised for her fierce competitiveness and tacIcal prowess. She has secured her legacy in tennis history with memorable wins at the Australian Open, US Open, and Wimbledon, where she claimed her first title in 2018. With her dedication to tennis and technical finesse in collaboration with LUX Tennis.
Guests can experience personalised lessons and professional guide directly from one of the world’s greatest tennis champions, all while basking in the Maldivian paradise.
Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is a luxury island resort known for its exquisite villas, pristine beaches, and exceptional guest experiences. The resort’s commitment to personalised service and exclusive experiences ensures that every guest enjoys an unforgettable stay.
For more informaIon or to reserve your seat at this exclusive event, please contact +960 664 4111, visit www.anantara.com/kihavah-maldives, or email reservaIons.maldives@anantara.com.
Featured
Unveiling ultimate escape: GlobeAir’s long-haul service to The Nautilus Maldives
The Nautilus Maldives has announced an extraordinary partnership with GlobeAir, Europe’s leading private jet operator. This exclusive collaboration introduces GlobeAir’s long-haul private jet services to the Maldives, setting a new benchmark for bespoke travel and offering an unparalleled journey into the world of ultimate luxury.
By joining forces, The Nautilus and GlobeAir aim to redefine bespoke travel, combining their expertise to deliver highly personalised and unforgettable experiences for the most discerning global travellers. This partnership seamlessly merges two realms of exceptional luxury, elevating both the travel experience and the destination itself.
GlobeAir’s newly launched long-haul private jet services to the Maldives reimagine private aviation with tailored itineraries, exceptional service, and unmatched comfort. From the moment passengers board, their journey is designed to reflect the elegance and exclusivity synonymous with The Nautilus. This collaboration exemplifies The Nautilus’s commitment to absolute freedom and bespoke ultra-luxury hospitality, where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure an unforgettable experience. Together, The Nautilus and GlobeAir invite guests to embark on a seamless transition from takeoff to the barefoot luxury of the Maldives.
The Exclusive Nautilus Experience:
- A Seamless Voyage: Guests begin their journey with a round-trip aboard a GlobeAir private jet, where every detail is crafted to provide ultimate comfort and personalised service.
- A Timeless Stay in Paradise: Upon arrival at The Nautilus, time slows down, and bespoke experiences take centre stage. With only 26 ultra-luxury boho-chic houses and residences, each space offers complete privacy and is tailored to individual preferences.
- Complimentary Cinema Under the Stars: Guests can indulge in an enchanting beachside cinema experience, featuring a custom bokkura setup and the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. The evening is complete with a bottle of fine champagne, blending barefoot sophistication with the magic of the Maldives.
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